Government of Canada Focuses on Achieving Concrete Results for First Nation Communities

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OTTAWA, ONTARIO (November 18, 2013) – The Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, outlined today a new, more results-focused and transparent approach to project funding for Aboriginal Representative Organizations (AROs).

“Our Government is committed to promoting healthier, more self-sufficient Aboriginal and Northern communities and today we are taking the necessary steps to do just that,” said Minister Valcourt. “These changes will help focus resources on efforts that have the highest chance of having a long-term, positive impact for Aboriginal communities and people across Canada.”

As announced on September 4, 2012, the Government is realigning project funding available to AROs so that funds are directed at projects that advance priorities shared with First Nations such as: Improving First Nation elementary and secondary education outcomes; Economic development; Métis and non-status partnerships and policy development; Social program reform; Capacity development and accountability; and Northern research and development and climate change programs for Aboriginal and northern communities.

Starting April 1, 2014, $20 million in funding will be available each year for projects with fixed timeframes. AROs will be able to apply to projects listed under six themes through already established application channels. Proposals will need to focus on achieving results in one of these six themes, which are linked to and advance key priorities.

A summary of project results will also be posted on the Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada website annually, providing for greater transparency and demonstration of results.

It is important to note that funding for program and service delivery, funding related to claims and self-government processes and funding that flows through AANDC from another federal government department to an Aboriginal Representative Organization are not impacted by this new approach.

For more information on accessing project-based funding, organizations should go through their regular channels and contact theirAANDC regional office or headquarters program manager.

For more information on the Government’s more results-focused and transparent approach to project funding, please visit:

Backgrounder – New Approach to Project Funding for Aboriginal Representative Organizations

For more information, please contact: